Washington, DC, August 02, 2005 – Legal Assets joined two intellectual property law experts in bringing clarity to a complex practice area in the training session “Intellectual Property for the Non-IP Paralegal.” Kathleen Cooney-Porter and Colette Durst-Barkey, attorneys for one of the largest firms specializing exclusively in intellectual property law in the United States, highlighted the trademark, copyright and patent law essentials as part of Legal Assets’ BreakfastClub Training Series.

Employing examples from their own practice, Kathleen and Colette explained the definitions, types of marks, jurisdictions, searching and filing in trademark law. By demonstrating with Web sites and databases critical to the process, the attendees walked away with applicable resources to guide them through the intricacy of intellectual property.

Likewise, the speakers’ explanation of the copyright office, application and proceedings proved to be a valuable foundation for the attendees. Kathleen and Colette expertly overviewed what can be protected, infringing on copyrights and fair use of works, including the effect use has on a work’s market value. In the time remaining, they explored patent law and its place in intellectual property.

“As expected, the speakers were engaging. Kathleen and Colette enthusiastically fielded questions and shared real-life examples. Since both attorneys rely heavily on paralegals at their firm, their experiences were enlightening,” noted Jeff Miller, Legal Assets’ co-founder. Those legal professionals in attendance were generally employed in practice areas other than intellectual property; as a result, the training prepared them for opportunities within their firm where knowing the complexities of intellectual property law would be advantageous.

Legal Assets is a temporary staffing agency specializing in attorneys, law clerks and paralegals. With more than 18 years of success in the Washington community, Legal Assets offers legal placement and management expertise, a commitment to quality candidates and leading-edge training. The clientele include high profile law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies and associations in the Washington Metropolitan area.